Dandelion Cafe
This coffee shop has become a breakfast and lunch destination in Bellaire with pancakes, pastries, paninis and salads. "Our hospitality is something that’s really important to me," owner Sarah Lieberman said. 5405 Bellaire Blvd., Bellaire. 832-988-9210. www.dandelionhouston.com
Enoteca Rossa
This wine-driven restaurant offers a small, intimate setting and handmade pastas. Brian Brossa, the general manager and co-owner, curates a robust wine selection to complement a menu that blends Italian regional cuisines. 566 Bissonnet St., Bellaire. 346-204-4403. www.enotecarossa.com
Local Foods
Local Foods' first location in Rice Village proved that the concept of creatively prepared, locally sourced food could win over a following. “It’s more work, and it’s often more expensive, but we feel like it’s still a win-win in the sense that the food is almost always fresher, and it supports the local economy," said Dylan Murray, chef and partner of Local Foods. 2424 Dunstan Road, Houston. 713-521-7800. www.houstonlocalfoods.com
McHugh Tea Room & Gifts
Kim McHugh’s husband would drink multiple cups of tea a day, but it soon became her calling. When it came time for a career change, she leaned into tea and it has paid off. "“Thankfully, there was a very big embrace by the community," McHugh said. 5305 Bissonnet St., Ste. D, Bellaire. 713-218-6300. www.mchughtea.com
Pasha
For 15 years, Mustafa Ozsoy has taken pride in representing the cuisine of his homeland, Turkey, and treating his guests like royalty. “When I hire someone, I tell them, ‘We are not only serving food here. We are hosting our guests here,’” Ozsoy said. 2325 University Blvd., Houston. 713-592-0020. www.epasha.com
Tamales Don Pepe
Owner Rene Hidalgo has had two other restaurants under his belt, but Tamales Don Pepe might be his most successful yet, he said. It offers affordable, authentic Mexican cuisine.
3816 Link Valley Drive, Houston; 281-846-6195; www.tamalesdonpepe.com
The '401
Bellaire's homegrown, family friendly restaurant came about with a four-member partnership among Arash Noamouz, a restaurateur; his wife, Kristi Coffey, a former marketer; her brother Matthew Coffey, a certified public accountant; and his wife, Holly Coffey, a teacher.
6700 Ferris St., Ste. 150, Bellaire; 832-962-7649; www.the401bellaire.com
